Paris: Roughly one in four matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be played in dangerous heat conditions, as climate change continues to drive higher temperatures across North America, researchers have warned.
The tournament will run from June 11 to July 19 across 16 stadiums in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
According to World Weather Attribution (WWA), the risk of extreme heat is significantly higher than during the 1994 World Cup hosted in the United States.
Heat Risk Across Matches
The study estimates that 26 of the 104 matches could be played in conditions reaching at least 26°C Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), a heat index that reflects humidity, sunlight, and wind, and is used to assess human heat stress.
At this level, FIFPRO recommends cooling breaks due to the risk of heat strain on players.
Of those matches, 17 will take place in stadiums with cooling systems, helping reduce exposure for players and spectators.
Five matches could exceed 28°C WBGT — a threshold where matches may need to be delayed or postponed. Researchers say this risk has nearly doubled since the 1994 tournament.
Concerns for Players and Fans
Climate scientist Friederike Otto of Imperial College London said both players and fans are at risk, particularly in open-air stadiums.
She warned that spectators may face greater exposure than players due to limited medical support and protection from extreme conditions.
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Stadium Conditions and Final Match
Three venues — Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta — are equipped with air conditioning, while many others are not.
A large share of high-risk matches will be played in stadiums without cooling systems.
The final, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, also carries a measurable risk of extreme heat, raising concerns about safety for both players and fans.
